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Natural landscape · Tufi, Oro
Tufi Fjords
Narrow, deep sea inlets of Cape Nelson, between forested hills, traveled by canoe to villages where tapa is made.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Tufi Fjords
The Tufi fjords are the sea inlets that carve into Cape Nelson on Oro’s coast. They are river valleys drowned by the sea, called rias by geographers, and they extend inland between steep forested slopes. Locals call them fjords because of their narrow, deep shape, although they were not formed by glaciers.
The water is calm in most of the inlets, and outrigger canoes are the villages’ means of transport. On the shores there are vegetable gardens, small beaches and waterfalls that descend from the slopes, and the fjord floors shelter corals and reef fish near the entrance.
In the villages, women make tapa: the bark of certain trees is beaten until it becomes a thin cloth, then painted with natural dyes in designs that are passed down through generations. Visits are arranged with the communities, and the crafts are sold there.
Excursions depart from the Tufi station by canoe or boat and can last half a day or a full day, depending on the fjord chosen.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From half a day to a full day, depending on the fjord and the villages visited.
Best time
In the morning, when the water is usually calmer and the light enters the sea inlets. In the rainier season, from December to April, the waterfalls usually carry more water.
How to get there
Tours depart from the Tufi station by canoe or boat, organized by the accommodation or by village guides.
Tip
Bring cash for crafts and for the village contribution, and ask before photographing people.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Tufi Fjords
Were the Tufi fjords formed by glaciers?
No. They are river valleys drowned by the sea between forested hills. The name fjord comes from their narrow, deep shape.
How do you visit the Tufi fjords?
By canoe or boat from the Tufi station, with the accommodation or with village guides.
Can you swim in the Tufi fjords?
In several spots, yes, especially near the entrances of the inlets where there are corals. Ask the guide where it is safe to enter the water.